Hand quilted work is special and a skill set that is different than machine quilted work. It is not better. It is simply a different technique. As far as keeping true to tradition, my grandmother made many a quilt in the 20's and 30's on her treadle machine and then tied them. I cherish them because they had her hands on them from cutting feed sacks to tying the knots. Some may prefer on style of quilting over the other but.... it is not better or less prestigious.
Smile and enjoy your time with your quilt work.